The ancient town of Kishi, in the Irepo Local Government Area of Oyo State came alive on Monday, as indigenes and visitors gathered to celebrate the age-long Adasobo Festival, a cultural event deeply rooted in the history and identity of the people.
The festival, which draws sons and daughters of Kishi from across Nigeria and beyond, is marked by traditional rites, symbolic displays, and communal gatherings that reflect the town’s rich heritage.
When our correspondent visited the community located in the Northern part of Oyo State, on April 20, 2026, the palace of the Iba of Kishi and Ansarudeen School situated some steps away after the town’s market (the two major venues used for the festival, were a beehive of activities, as chiefs, elders, and residents converged in their colourful traditional attires to witness the rites and pay homage to the monarch.
Royal Presence, Cultural Pride
Seated in majesty, the Iba of Kishi received homage from traditional chiefs and subjects who took turns to greet him in accordance with age-old customs.
The palace courtyard echoed with chants, drumbeats, and praises, as cultural groups performed to entertain the gathering.
The Iba of Kishi and his wife, enjoying entertainment while awaiting the arrival of hunters who had gone into the bush to hunt for animals, a significant part of the Adasobo Festival
Chiefs who sat with the monarch described the Adasobo Festival as a unifying force for the people and a reminder of their ancestral roots.
One of the Chiefs, the Laha of Kishi land, Dr Yusuf Adeleke Ibrahim, said the festival has remained symbolic and an identity for Kishi indigenes over the years.
“Today, what we are doing here is celebrating the Adasobo Festival. It is an annual celebration in honour of the Iba of Kishi and our heritage. As you can observe, the hunters have just gone into the tick forests to hunt, and all animals captured would be brought here before the Iba of Kishi and thereafter taken to the Adasobo mountain, the one behind the Iba of Kishi palace and offered there as a sacrifice.
“This festival is not just about celebration; it is about remembering where we come from. It binds us together as one people,” he said.
Another chief noted that the event also serves as an avenue for younger generations to connect with their culture.
“In a time when many youths are drifting away from tradition, festivals like this bring them back home to learn and appreciate our heritage,” he added.
Hunters Showcase Bravery
A major highlight of the celebration was the outing of local hunters, who ventured into the surrounding forests as part of the traditional rites associated with the festival.
The hunters returned to the town with animals they had hunted, drawing cheers from residents who lined the streets to welcome them.
The display of the game was symbolic, reflecting bravery, skill, and the community’s historical reliance on hunting as a means of livelihood.
The Kishi Youth Leader, who met with PrimeTimes Nigeria correspondent earlier, described the hunters’ return as one of the most anticipated moments of the festival.
Beyond the cultural significance, the Adasobo Festival also provided an opportunity for social interaction and economic activities within the town.
PrimeTimes Nigeria correspondent interacting with the chiefs during the 2026 Adasobo Festival while The Iba of Kishi and residents await hunters arrival from the bush at Ansarudeen School on April 20, 2026.
PrimeTimes Nigeria correspondent entertained by the local drummers at the entrance of the Iba of Kishi Palace.
The main entrance to the Iba of Kishi Palace
Local traders, food vendors, and artisans recorded increased patronage as visitors thronged the community.
The streets were filled with music, laughter, and reunions, as families and friends who had been apart gathered to celebrate together.
The Grand Finale of Adasobo Festival
Speaking further on the festival, Dr Ibrahim disclosed that the grand finale of the festival will be held on Saturday.
According to him, neighbouring villages and dignitaries will grace the occasion which will be held at the front of the Iba’s palace by the weekend.
PrimeTimes Nigeria correspondent observed that residents expressed excitement ahead of the final celebration, which is expected to feature more elaborate cultural displays and larger crowds.
“This is just the beginning. By Saturday, you will see the full glamour of Adasobo,” one of the chiefs said with a smile.
For the Kishi people, Adasobo is more than a festival; it is a living tradition that tells their story, their struggles, victories, and enduring unity.